Can I Be a Chief Guest at My Cousin's College Without Breaking Company Rules?

Dear all, I am working in a Tier 1 IT organization in Chennai. My cousin is studying in an engineering college, and I have been asked to be the chief guest for an inauguration ceremony that is scheduled for tomorrow. Would it go against company norms if I represent my organization as the chief guest at the college? Will HR take any action against me if I attend and deliver a guest lecture there?

I have already committed to the college staff that I will give a guest lecture on recent IT trends. Now, I am feeling quite confused. Please help me!

Regards, Prabhu

Consider Your Organization's Work Rules

What does your organization's work rule say? Is participation in any external event explicitly prohibited? If not, I think you can go ahead and give a guest lecture or be a chief guest at an academic institution. This will likely be accepted by your organization, as even the top management of your company must be speaking about Industry-Academia interactions, etc.

If you end up being highlighted as a contributor to that institution in terms of your address and ideas, it will only promote the image of your company. Have a good Inauguration Ceremony! 

Guidelines for Attending as a Guest Lecturer

It is suggested to submit a personal application through the proper channel, asking for permission to accept the invitation as a guest lecturer. Also, please add that you are attending the function in your personal capacity and not representing the company. Additionally, mention that you will keep the reputation of your organization at the highest precedence and not disclose any vital or confidential official data. Lastly, make it clear that you are doing it only with a social point of view to motivate and inspire the youth and not receiving any additional financial grants for the same.

If you are declaring officially, then you have to intimate your organization; otherwise, you can attend this function as the chief guest. If you are financially benefiting, you have to inform your organization. If the organization's image is being projected, then you have to get permission.